Coaches corner: Ernie Hinojosa: 'Winning feels great, but it isn't the most important thing'

Every day hundreds of volunteer coaches use their spare time to help young athletes learn a game. To honor these coaches, My East Side will profile a coach every week.

Today: Ernie Hinojosa, coach of the El Paso Cowboys football teams. Hinojosa has been coaching for seven years and his organization currently has three teams in age ranging from 5- to 11-years-old. The team's season started this week.

QWhy do you volunteer your time?

A I volunteer my time because I want to help out my community. I try to keep the kids interested in after-school activities to help them keep on track and out of trouble. I want to give them something fun to look forward to.

Q What is your coaching philosophy?

A I believe in determination, dedication and never giving up. Always give it your best, whether we win or lose.

Q Other than learning how to play football, what do you hope your players learn?

A My players learn to be responsible. They learn about respect, integrity and helping the community.

Q What tip would you give other volunteer coaches?

A We coach to teach the kids how to play the game.

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Winning feels great but it isn't the most important thing. We need to teach them that they can't always win but as long as they try their best, that is all that matters.

Q What is the highlight of your coaching career so far?

A The highlight of my coaching career is by far watching my kids who are now playing football in high school. Sometimes they come up to me and thank me for helping them learn the game. It is at that moment that I feel great about what I do.

Editor's note: To have your coach profiled, send an email to rbracamontes@elpasotimes.com.